Asheville –
As the City of Asheville continues its recovery efforts from Tropical Storm Helene, the ART bus service is stepping up to meet the needs of the community. Starting October 21, residents can expect an expanded bus service that not only enhances accessibility but also connects them to vital resources and services.
Expanded Service Hours and Routes
Beginning Monday, ART bus service will extend its operational hours, with select routes running from approximately 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays. Sunday service will return to its regular schedule. This change comes as road conditions improve, allowing for a more comprehensive network of routes. The last outbound trips from the Transit Center will leave no later than 7:59 p.m., so passengers are encouraged to check alerts for specific bus times.
Four additional routes—S1, S2, W5, and 170 (Black Mountain)—will be reinstated, bringing the total number of operational routes to 17 out of 19. Notably, route 170 will undergo significant modifications to facilitate travel between Downtown Asheville and Black Mountain. Passengers heading to Haw Creek can catch route 170 at the top of the hour, with the last outbound trip scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, and 3:00 p.m. on Sundays and holidays.
Transportation to FEMA Resource Center
In a crucial move to support residents affected by the storm, shuttle service will be available starting October 21 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This service will connect area shelters—WNC Ag Center and Gold’s Gym—to the AC Reynolds FEMA Resource Center. One bus will operate this route, ensuring that those in need can access essential resources.
Accessing Food and Water Distribution Sites
The ART bus service is also playing a vital role in connecting residents to food and water distribution sites across the city. Community Care Stations have been established to provide hot showers, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, charging stations, restrooms, as well as meals and water. These stations can be accessed via various ART bus routes: Pack Square Park is accessible through Routes WE2 and S2; Sky Lanes Bowling via Route WE2; Shiloh Community Center through Route S1; 85 Tunnel Rd. (Community Care Station) via Route WE2; and 980 Brevard Rd. (Community Care Station) via Route W2.
Early Voting Accessibility
With early voting underway since October 17, Buncombe County residents can utilize ART bus routes to reach polling locations. Some accessible early voting sites include East Asheville Library via Route WE2, West Asheville Library via Route W1, Black Mountain Library via Route 170 Black Mountain, UNCA Health & Counseling Center which is within walking distance of Route N1, and Dr. Wesley Grant Southside Center which is within walking distance of Route S4.
Staying Informed
To keep up with any changes that may affect travel plans, residents are encouraged to check the Service Alerts page regularly. For real-time updates, individuals can sign up for iRide email alerts or text “NextART” to 41411.
As Asheville navigates the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene, the ART bus service is proving to be an essential resource for residents seeking access to food, water, and voting locations. With expanded hours and routes, the city is making strides in ensuring that all community members can stay connected during this challenging time.
For more information on recovery resources and updates, residents can visit the City’s recovery resources page and news update page.